In the realm of human resources and community activism, where leadership and empathy intersect, few stories are as compelling as that of Kimberlee Shelley. A seasoned HR leader, author, and community advocate, Kimberlee’s journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and the transformative power of purpose-driven work. From her impactful contributions to the staffing industry to her relentless advocacy for equality and empowerment, Kimberlee stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring leaders and changemakers alike.
Born with an innate drive to uplift others, Kimberlee has carved out a distinguished career that spans multiple sectors. Currently serving as the Branch Manager at Universal Staffing and Advisor, Stakeholder Relations with the Office of Graham McGregor, Member of Provincial Parliament for Brampton North, she seamlessly blends professional excellence with community engagement. Her accolades, including the Mississauga Board of Trade Business Person of the Year, RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award, and the CIBWE Top 100 Black Women to Watch, reflect her dedication and influence. Kimberlee’s name even graces a bench at Humber College—a symbol of her enduring legacy.
“I’m an author, community and political activist, speaker, and HR professional,” Kimberlee shares. “Beyond that, I’m a people person—very outgoing and adventurous. I value my family, my faith, and my community.”
A Foundation of Hard Work and Community Spirit
Kimberlee’s career began in paralegal education and pro bono work before transitioning to the staffing industry. Her early roles as an HR administrator and staffing consultant allowed her to develop a deep understanding of recruitment and talent management. She later took on senior positions, including senior consultant and account manager roles, where she honed her leadership skills. Alongside her professional journey, Kimberlee engaged in extensive community work, championing issues surrounding racism, equity, women’s empowerment, and religious freedom.
“I think what has made me successful is working hard, maintaining focus, paying it forward, setting goals, and having something that grounds me,” she notes. “For me, that’s my faith.”
Leading Universal Staffing: Transforming Lives Through Opportunities
As the Branch Manager at Universal Staffing, Kimberlee oversees operations, trains new staff, and implements policies that foster both employee growth and client satisfaction. The company, known for connecting candidates with opportunities that align with their skills and aspirations, thrives under her leadership.
“Universal Staffing has been giving people the opportunity to find their calling for over 20 years,” Kimberlee explains. “We specialize in connecting candidates with opportunities where they can excel, whether temporary, contract, or permanent. Our success stems from understanding our customers’ core business and customizing our services to meet their needs.”
Kimberlee’s favorite part of her role? “The happiest part of my routine would have to be making an impact on individuals’ lives by providing them with a job so they can support their families and sustain themselves. It’s even more rewarding to see them progress and evolve into different roles,” she shares.
The Art of Building Culture and Driving Innovation
Kimberlee emphasizes the critical role of company culture in driving organizational success. “At the most basic level, an effective company culture is one in which people work well together to achieve a common goal,” she asserts. “There’s no question that company culture is just as important as strategy, if not more important.”
Innovation also plays a pivotal role in Kimberlee’s approach to leadership. “Innovating allows us to improve our existing products, processes, and methodologies, as well as create new ones from scratch,” she says. Universal Staffing leverages revenue-model innovation, business-model innovation, and industry-model innovation to remain ahead in a competitive landscape.
Advice for Aspiring Leaders
Kimberlee’s journey is a treasure trove of wisdom for aspiring leaders. Her advice to those stepping into leadership roles is as practical as it is profound:
“Remain humble, be open to learning, and remember that a good leader is a good listener,” she advises. “Adopt a growth mindset, build rapport with everyone you can, start one-on-ones with your team right away, and master the art of managing up. Finally, know that no one is immune to facing new challenges. Understand the problems, identify what needs to be done, and focus on how you can impact the organization.”
Beyond the Workplace: A Life Dedicated to Empowerment
Kimberlee’s influence extends far beyond her professional achievements. As a community and political activist, she has served on several boards and worked with grassroots organizations to address critical issues. Her advocacy for equity and women’s empowerment has inspired countless individuals to challenge societal norms and pursue their aspirations.
Her story is a powerful reminder that success is not merely about individual achievements but about lifting others along the way. Kimberlee’s unwavering commitment to empowering her community and advancing the cause of equality exemplifies what it means to be a leader in every sense of the word.
The Legacy of a Transformational Leader
Kimberlee Shelley’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, leadership, and the art of making a difference. Whether she’s navigating the complexities of HR management, championing community causes, or inspiring the next generation of leaders, Kimberlee’s impact is undeniable. Her story challenges us all to work hard, stay grounded, and use our talents to uplift others—a legacy that will undoubtedly inspire for generations to come.
Kimberlee Shelley
Branch Manager at Universal Staffing
Advisor, Stakeholder Relations with the Office of Graham McGregor
